My grandfather raised thoroughbreds in Fairhope at Clearwater Stables, which he owned with his partner Ed Roberts. Additionally, he owned the Grand Hotel Fish Camp, where my dad spent his childhood in the 30s and 40s surrounded by the dogs: Chesapeakes & Black Labs. Growing up in the Delta and Bay areas out of Fish River, my dad was a passionate duck hunter who relied on these dogs for hunting. He started Belle Shain in 1958 as a young and newly married 20-year-old. I grew up training dogs, absorbing it without knowing, just by observing him and apprenticing with other Hall of Fame trainers who were his friends.  

My first dog, Jeff, a black lab, was named after Jeff Ray, a dear friend and longshoreman at the Port of Mobile. Jeff used to drop me off on the Causeway or at Fish River for duck-hunting adventures. When I was done, he would pick me up and bring me home or to Dad’s office, creating cherished memories between him and me.

As an adult, I’ve dedicated over 45 years to dog training, recently realizing I’ve worked with over 3,000 dogs in my lifetime. Holding titles such as AKC Master Judge, Canine Good Citizen evaluator, Farm Dog evaluator, Fetch, and FIT Dog, I bring a wealth of experience. 

As Belle Shain, we embrace the philosophy of Mischief, Manners, & Fun!  Our approach connects with dogs on their level, living in the moment, allowing us to teach them effectively using patience and consistent repetition. 

Dogs have always been highly important in my life. They are treasured dearly and have taught me great things about life.  As I got older, the more dogs I met and trained, the more I learned about their individualism. I got better at communicating with them. I learned that the value of a lifetime of experience is incredible.

Today, for me, There is not much greater joy in life than anticipating the dawn breaking so you can run outside and start playing with a group of your best friends, all happy to see you, of which I have acquired around a dozen Labs, Goldens, and Spinoni, along with your best friend.

Yes, my wife is a remarkable woman....